Trinity Three Irish Pubs staying put as owners double down on Water Street

The familiar sounds of live music and clinking glasses might soon return to Milwaukee’s Water Street as Trinity Three Irish Pubs has reversed course and will remain open under its current ownership. After a brief listing for sale, the pub's parent company, Water Street Brewery Group, is instead reinvesting in the longtime downtown bar, signaling a renewed commitment to Milwaukee’s entertainment district—a move that could offer a crucial boost to the area’s ongoing revitalization efforts. TMJ4 News, “If we lose downtown, we lose the city.”

The Reversal: A Commitment to Water Street

Trinity Three Irish Pubs, a fixture on Water Street for nearly two decades, had been listed for sale earlier this year. The decision to pull the listing and reinvest comes after the recent passing of Robert C.R. Schmidt Jr., the hospitality entrepreneur who built the business and helped shape Water Street into a nightlife destination. His son, Matt Schmidt, is now leading the company and driving this renewed focus on revitalization. The initial plan to sell arose in July, coinciding with Mr. Schmidt’s declining health—he passed away on September 1st at age 76. This decision represents more than just keeping a business afloat; it’s a statement about the future of Milwaukee’s downtown core and a commitment to its enduring appeal. According to Schmidt, “One of the mistakes we made coming back from COVID was we didn't have a food menu.” This signals a return to a more comprehensive offering, aiming to recapture the energy and appeal that initially propelled Trinity’s success.

The pub's commitment to expanding its offerings includes bringing back a food menu, introducing live music, and extending the bar’s hours. These changes are intended to revitalize the pub’s offerings and attract a broader range of customers. The company's reinvestment represents a significant vote of confidence in the future of Water Street and downtown Milwaukee. Kristine Hillmer, president and CEO of the Wisconsin Restaurant Association, highlighted similar developments like High Stakes by Bartolotta and investments from the city and Marcus Center as signs of a growing momentum for downtown. The Wisconsin Restaurant Association advocates for policies that support restaurants and the hospitality industry throughout the state.

Water Street: Challenges and Opportunities

While the renewed commitment is welcomed, Water Street has faced significant challenges in recent years. The area has dealt with concerns over late-night crime, violence, and reckless driving, leading to closures of businesses like Duke’s on Water and Silk on Water. These issues have created a sense of uncertainty about the district's future and have impacted the overall perception of downtown Milwaukee. However, alongside these challenges, there are signs of optimism and renewed investment. New projects and developments are injecting fresh energy into the area, signaling a potential turning point for Water Street.

The Impact of Business Closures

The closures of Duke’s on Water and Silk on Water underscore the difficulties faced by businesses on Water Street. These closures, coupled with concerns about safety and the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, have contributed to a period of uncertainty for the entertainment district. The decision by Trinity Three to remain open and reinvest is a direct response to these challenges, demonstrating a determination to overcome obstacles and contribute to a brighter future for Water Street.

Safety and Community Collaboration

For Schmidt, the success of Water Street’s comeback will depend in part on maintaining a safe environment for customers and businesses. He emphasized that the area’s reputation is crucial for attracting visitors and fostering a positive atmosphere. “We've communicated a lot as operators in this area to make sure our voices are heard, that we want safety in this area,” Schmidt said. Water Street businesses have been actively communicating with the Milwaukee Police Department to address concerns about safety, particularly regarding individuals who congregate in the area without patronizing establishments. Schmidt hopes this collaboration will continue to improve the perception of safety on Water Street. Milwaukee Police Department is committed to serving and protecting the residents and visitors of Milwaukee.

Future Plans and Investments

Trinity Three Irish Pubs is preparing to launch an updated food menu, introduce live music, and extend its operating hours. These changes are intended to revitalize the pub’s offerings and attract a broader range of customers. The company is also exploring building improvements to enhance the overall customer experience. The decision to keep Trinity on Water Street represents a bet that there is still a future to build on, and the owners intend to be part of that future. This commitment extends beyond Trinity Three, as it signals a broader investment in the revitalization of Milwaukee’s downtown entertainment district.

Local Context and the Wauwatosa Connection

The revitalization of Water Street and the commitment of businesses like Trinity Three Irish Pubs have significant implications for the broader Milwaukee area, including Wauwatosa. A thriving downtown benefits the entire region, creating jobs, attracting visitors, and enhancing the quality of life for all residents. While Trinity Three is not directly in Wauwatosa, its success contributes to the overall economic vitality that impacts neighborhoods like ours. The renewed investment in Water Street represents a shared commitment to building a stronger and more vibrant Milwaukee for all.

Marcus's Perspective: A Vote of Confidence

The decision by Water Street Brewery Group to double down on Trinity Three Irish Pubs speaks to a deeper truth about Milwaukee: our city’s heart beats strongest in its downtown core. It’s encouraging to see a family reinvesting in their business and in the community, especially after facing personal loss and economic uncertainty. The commitment to bringing back food and live music isn't just about boosting sales; it’s about recreating an atmosphere—a place where people gather, celebrate, and build connections. In a culture increasingly fragmented by technology and social isolation, these shared experiences are more vital than ever. While the challenges facing Water Street remain real—safety concerns, competition—this commitment demonstrates a belief in the enduring power of community and the American dream of building something lasting.

I've always believed that strong communities are built on stable businesses and committed families. A thriving downtown supports both. It’s a reminder that resilience isn’t about avoiding hardship, but about facing it head-on and investing in the future—a future where our children can experience the vibrancy and opportunity that define Milwaukee. We should all be rooting for Water Street’s success, not just for the sake of the businesses themselves, but for the health and well-being of our entire region. What’s most important now is that we support these businesses by becoming loyal customers and advocating for policies that promote safety and prosperity in our downtown.

Resources and Further Information

For more information about Trinity Three Irish Pubs, visit their website at Trinity Three Irish Pubs. To learn more about the Wisconsin Restaurant Association and their advocacy efforts, visit https://restaurantassociation.com/. For information on the Milwaukee Police Department and community safety initiatives, see Milwaukee Police Department.

Residents interested in supporting Water Street businesses can also visit the Milwaukee Downtown BID website at https://downtownmilwaukee.com/ for updates and events.